Theology on the Rocks West goes on the road to Center for Pastoral Leadership

Theology on the Rocks West celebrated its eighth anniversary with a road trip to the Center for Pastoral Leadership in Wickliffe.

The Catholic-based discussion group for mature adults 40 and older attracted about 80 people for the trip, which included refreshments, an overview of the CPL, a tour of Mary, Mother of the Good Shepherd Chapel and a presentation by four seminarians on Sept. 14.

Anita Simko, one of the group’s founders, welcomed guests to the chapel as the evening began and thanked them for eight years of support and growth. “Thank you for your time, talent, treasure and prayers,” she said, expressing her appreciation for TOTR members and others who supported the campaign.

Father Andy Turner, president/rector of Borromeo and Saint Mary seminaries, and Father Chris Trenta, a seminary faculty member, also welcomed the group.

Father Trenta helped with the recent renovation of the chapel, which was part of the Heart of a Shepherd campaign, Both seminaries were remodeled and the chapel was completely renovated during the project that took more than two years.

He pointed out several features, including stars on the ceiling that represent the position they were in when the diocese was established in 1847. Father Trenta explained that the chapel, built in about 1948, takes its name from the Sisters of the Good Shepherd who had a school for girls on the campus before the diocese purchased the property. “Mary is the mother of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, so we decided to rename the chapel after her,” he added.

“I call this chapel the principal and most important classroom at the CPL,” Father Trenta said. Bishop Edward Malesic approved – and was involved in – the extensive renovations, which were overseen by Henninger’s.

He pointed out some of the other features, including the new altar that features a pelican, similar to the one on the cathedral altar, a new ambo, new paint and additional statues. A digital component was added to the organ and the original Borromeo tabernacle was located, renovated and returned to the sanctuary. The Stations of the Cross are new to the chapel. Previously, they were in the bishop’s chapel at the cathedral rectory and were found in storage at the rectory.

Father Trenta also pointed out features of the stained-glass windows which feature Jesus as the Good Shepherd, Mary, mother of the Good Shepherd and several others with saints.

After explaining highlights of the chapel renovation and allowing the guests to walk through for a closer look, they returned to the Aula where several seminarians shared a glimpse of seminary life and discussed their discernment of their vocations.

The next Theology on the Rocks program will be Oct. 12 at the West Side Irish American Club, 8559 Jennings Road, Olmsted Township. Father Bob Sanson will discuss Father Pedro Arrupe, SJ, a first responder in Hiroshima who later was superior general of the Jesuits. His cause for sainthood is pending. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the program at 7 p.m. Cost is $15, which includes appetizers. There is a cash bar. Click here for reservations and more information.